2006 Speeches

 Address by TSRA Member for Port Kennedy

Mr Bill Shibasaki

Rotuman Mat Presentation, Gab Titui Cultural Centre

13 May 2006

I would like to begin by firstly acknowledging:

• The Kaurereg People
• Elders present this morning 
• Mayor Pedro Stephen
• Mr John Abednego
• Rotuman descendents
• Ladies and Gentlemen

Good Morning. I am pleased to here today to take part in this special occasion, where our community members of Rotuman ancestry are presenting a unique ceremonial mat, an Apei, for safekeeping at our Cultural Centre, Gab Titui. 

I understand that the Apei is of important value in Rotuman society - it is a valued piece, where only the honoured are allowed to go near or to sit on it, with the white colour representing purity.  

Today, we are fortunate to be given the privilege to be the carers of this Apei, to preserve it for visitors and future generations to enjoy and learn of its cultural significance and link to the Torres Strait. 

It is important to recognise that our community is made up of many different people of diverse origins, and it is this mix of culture and tradition, which makes the Torres Strait distinctly unique. 

This great blend of culture, is the drawing point for many visitors to our region, and is one which we should all be proud of and the Gab Titui Cultural Centre is ensuring that our visitors will always leave the Torres Strait with admiration and inspiration of our diverse culture and people. 

To the Rotuman descendents, I am pleased to see that you have established a connection and continue to maintain that Rotuman link to your heritage – it is one that you should be proud of. 

On behalf of the Gab Titui Cultural Centre, I would like to say esso for your contribution to the Centre, this is one of many pieces that will be treasured and showcased for the Torres Strait and the world to see. Esso.